Freddie Burns reacts to Gilbert Golden Boot triumph

Fly half Freddie Burns won the Gilbert Golden Boot at last week's Aviva Premiership Awards ceremony. He spoke to the club website about the achievement.

Burns topped the goal kicking stats but just one point, edging out Gareth Steenson of the Exeter Chiefs. Both players overtook Nick Evans of Harlequins on the final day of the season.

Overall, it's been Burns' most prolific season to date, as he finished with 350 points in all competitions.

Although he admits to having worked hard on his goal kicking, he stresses that finishing top of the goal scoring charts was never an ambition.

"It's not something you target, or even think about, when the season starts. All you're focused on is coming in to the season in the best possible shape, ready to do your absolute best for the team.

"As the season went on though, you're aware that you're up there in terms of the number of points you've scored. I knew it was close at the top but, to be honest, I thought Nick Evans was too far clear of me.

"It was the last thing on my mind going in to the Exeter game. I just wanted Gloucester to finish the season on a winning note. I had no interest in how many points individuals had scored.

"So, when I was told that I'd actually won it, my first reaction was one of shock. Then, obviously, a huge amount of personal pride. But I still can't quite believe it was only by one point!

"I'm happy with the award, although I'd have swapped it for a play off place for the team. It was disappointing to just miss out like that."

The 23 year old confesses that hard work is the secret to his success and that he's been motivated in several ways.

"I work consistently on all aspects of my game, but I've had a bit of flak in the past about my goal kicking and I've put in a lot of hours after training to try and take things to the next level.

"I've had to be on top of my game in terms of the goal kicking because we've also got the likes of Cookie (Rob Cook) and Billy (Twelvetrees). They're both excellent kickers in their own right and keep me on my toes.

"It's gone well this season, but I'm aware that I still have a lot of work to do to be considered one of the game's elite kickers. I've made progress this season and I'll be looking to do the same again next season."

Next up however is England duty, and a busy few weeks beckon.

"I'll be going into camp this week, and I think we'll be doing mostly fitness stuff to keep us ticking over. Not everyone will be there of course. Some of the squad will still be involved with the Premiership play offs.

"Then we get together in the run up to the Barbarians game and after that, of course, we're off to Argentina.

"Me and Jonny were both part of the U20s squad that played in the Junior World Cup in Argentina a few years back, so nice to go back there again.

"It's going to be a really interesting tour. Argentina are a tough proposition in front of their own supporters and it'll be a real test for all of us.

"But it's also a real opportunity for people to show what they can do in the absence of a few players.

"It's a real confidence booster for me to be selected. I obviously got injured just at the wrong time in terms of the Six Nations, and that was a bit of a blow.

"But what was really important was to get back to doing what I do best for Gloucester. If I'm doing my job at club level, then the rest takes care of itself."

"I'm really pleased that I'll have a few of the Gloucester lads alongside me as well. They all deserve their places and, to be honest, I don't think it will be too long before a couple more of the boys are knocking on the door."

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